Functions of Art CHAPTER 3 Art Appreciation GEC106
Functions of Art Art can be generally classified into two; - the directly functional art - and indirectly functional art
Functional Art Refers to art that we use in our daily lives such as; - tools - architectural structures - roads - bridges - buildings - furniture - kitchen utensils - coins - bills - dress - weapon, etc.
Indirectly Functional Arts Refers to the arts that are “perceived through the senses” ; - fine arts - painting - music - sculpture - dance - literary piece - theatrical performances
Example on how directly functional and indirectly functional arts cross boundaries. the artist transforms the function of a chair into a symbolic object, a representation of something which eventually becomes a medium to symbolize seat of power, knowledge, education, statuses, etc.
What made Art relevant is its grasp towards the needs of the human kind. Art “serves basic human needs”.
Four Artistic Function Aesthetic Function Utilitarian Function Social Function Cultural Function
Aesthetic Function An artwork functions aesthetically when it becomes instrumental for man to be cognizant of the beauty of nature And where the real feelings of joy and appreciation to nature’s beauty are manifested through appreciation and enjoyment when in contact with the artwork.
Utilitarian Function Art is serving this function when it is utilized to give comfort , convenience , and happiness to human beings. It is used to serve basic needs such food , shelter, clothing medicine, comfortable environment, transportation , entertainment , communication, and expression , and
Social Function When the arts bridges connection among people, it serves a social function. Art here encourages good relationship-unity and cooperation are being facilitated and established.
Cultural Function Art serves as an aperture towards skills, knowledge, attitudes, customs, and traditions of different group of people. The Art helps, preserves, share, and transmit culture of people from one people generation to another..
Conclusion: Art is both directly and indirectly functional. Functional arts provide us with ease and comfort in living with our everyday lives. This form of arts directly serves human basic needs such tools, architectural structures, furniture, kitchen utensils, clothes, weapons, etc. While non-functional arts are basically used to inform, educate and entertain people. These are perceived through the senses such as painting , sculpture, music, literary pieces, dance, theatrical performances, etc. Art serves several functions. In terms of functions it is differentiated by the degree of exposure towards these arts. We utilize Art for personal purposes. We utilize Art to go beyond from the comfort space, and to affect and persuade other individuals. We utilize Art for physical purposes such us tools – these tools define man. Thus, Art is utilized to improve our way of life.
Activity: Check the appropriate column/s to identify the function or purpose of each Art expression. Give a statement to explain your answer/s on the last column. Artforms Personal Social Physical Explanation Architecture Film Dance Prose Poetry Theater Arts Painting Sculpture Animation Photography